A multicultural force : the socio-professional experiences of migrant nurses in western countries

Abstract

Nurses' globalisation and migration are not new trends. However, the retainment of foreign-educated recruited nurses seems challenging, in part due to socio-cultural differences, values and adaptation processes. These challenges often cause foreign-educated nurses to seek alternative resettlements to find a more adaptable place of work, which is socially, emotionally, and professionally more accommodating. Maltese healthcare is currently experiencing challenges in retaining foreign-educated nurses. This research aimed to explore the lived professional experiences of foreign-educated nurses in their new country of settlement and employment. For instance, their day-to-day adaptation and integration. This research has employed a qualitative approach, with the design methodology of a scoping review. A road mapping approach was used to develop emergent themes comprehensively. Five themes emerged: Language and Communication, Nursing Knowledge and Experience, Visible Minority, The Transition and Improved Working Environment. The themes were the result of the analysis of the professional, social, cultural and environmental

factors which contribute to the experience of foreign- educated nurses. Cultural differences, awareness,

adaptability, social-cultural expectations, relationships with colleagues and management support were determinants which influenced the experiences of foreign-educated nurses and, moreover, impacted their intent to continue working in a country or decide to search further. Nursing implications such as low retention and higher resignation, burn-out and patient risk were identified. For prospective nursing inquiry, exploration is recommended in areas of cultural awareness, team building, and managerial support, which may enable resilience and the propagation of global nursing values. This research brings a fresh, broad and diverse perspective to the topic of multicultural nursing.